The online column “Piazza Navona” offers you an interview with Martha High: one of the most important voice of funky and soul, for over thirty years vocalist and confidant of the legendary James Brown.
Martha High began her career in 1979 and has not stopped yet. For over thirty years she has been alongside the Godfather of Soul James Brown as a vocalist, manager, friend and confidant. Unforgettable today is their version of the beautiful song Summertime…
During her career Martha High had the honor of sharing the stage and the scene with the real legends of soul and pop, including Little Richard, Jerry Lee Lewis, Aretha Franklin, B.B. King, Stevie Wonder, Prince, Michael Jackson.
But this is not yet everything… Let’s listen to what the American singer tells us. A dive into his memories and into the history of music!
Enjoy the reading and… enjoy the Music!
- When did you decide to become a singer? And what about your debut?
I decided to become a singer after a couple of years singing with a few girls and we became the “Bo-ette’s”, the name “Bo Diddley“, gave us. I knew then, I wanted to be a real singer from then on.
- What do you remember about your meeting James Brown in 1964 and your work with him?
Meeting Mr. Brown was the highlight of my life! He was at his peek of his career, bigger than life. I use to see him on stage, at the infamous Howard Theatre. He was the most extraordinary dancing person I’d ever seen. So, to meet him was like an electric shock, it happened, I was mesmerized, feeling blessed.
Working with him was a blessing, a lesson, and a stepping stone that put me where I am today, which I am forever grateful for years I worked with him.
- What about your next album?
Well, my new album “Tribute to My Soul Sisters” recorded and produced by the Japanese Funk Ambassadors “Osaka Monaurail” and released by the Italian label Record Kicks! All concentration is on this wonderful: I’m so excited about this album.
- What is Music for you? And how do you think it is changed?
It’s a satisfaction to many things because it’s from the heart and soul…, it’s a healing for many problems and things.
- What is the song of your life, of your heart?
I’m all about love so a song that spreads joy and love. It’s a song on one of my albums (Singing For the Good Times) called Singing This Song (For You); this song has become a very powerful one for me.
- Have you already thought about your next tour? What memories have you got about Italy?
Brainstorming already…, plans are the making.
ITALY is my love…, everything: the food, most of the weather, the history and the beautiful people, especially the men whoo, yeesss!!
